Independent CT Subsystems with Optical Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional industrial CT systems require precise mechanical connections and complex setups for generating depth-resolved three-dimensional representations of objects, which can be impractical for large or heavy objects, especially those difficult to move or rotate with high precision.
Innovation Solution
A device and method allowing independent positioning of X-ray transmission and detection subsystems using a localization device to determine their positions and orientations without relying on a fixed mechanical structure, enabling radiographic imaging from various perspectives without moving the object, and using algorithms like filtered back-projection for reconstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a fixed mechanical structure with precise connections is used for CT imaging, then manufacturing precision and measurement accuracy are improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical connection system with an optical localization system. Instead of relying on precise mechanical connections between the radiation transmission device, radiation detection device, and object, the invention uses a localization device with markers to optically determine positions and locations. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical alignment requirements while maintaining measurement precision through computational geometry calculations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the object is moved or rotated for imaging, then radiographic images from different perspectives are obtained, but ease of operation and productivity deteriorate for large or heavy objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional approach by keeping the object stationary and moving the imaging devices instead. The radiation transmission device and radiation detection device are independently positioned at multiple locations around the object, capturing radiographic images from different perspectives without requiring the object to be moved or rotated. This is enabled by the localization system that tracks device positions rather than object positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the imaging system into independent subsystems: a radiation transmission device and a radiation detection device that can be positioned independently of each other and the object. Each device can be moved to different locations and orientations independently, allowing flexible imaging configurations. This segmentation eliminates the need for a single complex mechanical structure that would require moving the entire assembly or the object.
3Ease of operation
If independent positioning of subsystems is enabled, then ease of operation and adaptability are improved, but measurement precision deteriorates without fixed mechanical connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces markers as intermediary elements that facilitate precise measurement without requiring direct mechanical connections. Markers are attached to the radiation transmission device, radiation detection device, and object, serving as reference points for the localization device. These markers enable accurate determination of positions and locations through optical detection and geometric calculations, acting as intermediaries that bridge the gap between independent subsystems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical connection-based position determination with an optical localization system. Instead of relying on mechanical rigidity and predetermined geometric relationships, the invention uses optical markers and localization algorithms to dynamically determine the positions and orientations of all components. This substitution enables independent positioning while maintaining measurement precision through computational methods.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible and efficient generation of depth-resolved three-dimensional representations of large or heavy objects without the need for precise mechanical alignment, facilitating mobile and cost-effective CT examinations.
Implementation Method 1
A first subsystem (109) having a radiation transmitting device (110)
Implementation Method 2
a second subsystem (111) which has a radiation detection device (130) designed to record radiographic images
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A apparatus for generating a depth-resolved three-dimensional representation of an object arranged for penetration by radiation between a radiation emitting apparatus and a radiation detecting apparatus has a first sub-system comprising a radiation emitting apparatus, and a second sub-system comprising a radiation detecting apparatus, which is designed to record radiographic images. At least either the first sub-system or the second sub-system has a manipulation device which is designed to move the radiation emitting apparatus or the radiation detecting apparatus along a movement path, by means of which a recording of radiographic images of the object is made possible from different perspectives. The first sub-system and the second sub-system can be positioned independently of each other relative to the object. Holding apparatuses are provided in order to attach the first and the second sub-systems to the object. A localization device is provided which is designed to determine a position and an orientation of the radiation emitting apparatus and a position and an orientation of the radiation detecting apparatus, and a computer apparatus is designed to generate a depth-resolved three-dimensional representation of the object on the basis of the radiographic images.